Floral Park Pathfinder Honored
Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti (3rd right), Councilman Tom Muscarella (2nd right), Town Clerk Kate Murray (right), and Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll (left) presented the Town of Hempstead Pathfinder Award to Donna Sherrer of Floral Park as she was recognized during the Town’s Women’s History Month Celebration on March 26. Making history in Bellerose Village as the first woman elected as Mayor, Donna Scherrer has made an everlasting imprint in her own backyard. Being a resident for over 40 years has led to her heavy involvement in the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, assisting in relief efforts following 9/11, and dedicated decades to working with students. Donna goes above and beyond for the community which makes her a fitting honoree for the 2026 Pathfinder Awards.
Reports from April Board of Trustees Meeting
Mayor Kevin Fitzgerald
Annual Budget Meeting- I would also like to remind everyone that our Annual Budget Meeting is next Tuesday, April 14th, and as I’ve mentioned before, this is the meeting that everyone should attend. We will try to get through it expeditiously. This meeting is a great opportunity to learn about how the Village operates, how funds are spent, and how we operate on a day-to-day basis.
Deputy Mayor Lynn Pombonyo Police Department
Departmental training remains a priority as all members engage in ongoing training to keep their knowledge current and their skills sharp.
Most recently, the entire Department engaged in a full day of required firearms training, on a rotating basis. Several of our Officers are New York State certified Firearms Instructors who led the instruction, practice and every Officer’s required one year requalification on weapons used by our Police.
Classroom instruction related to body-worn camera upgrades, as all of our Patrol Officers wear these devices that record the Officers’ incident responses and policing interactions with the public. The instruction also included Police Report priorities (especially for reports that may be reviewed by other agencies such as Nassau County, attorneys, and members of the Court System) and other current topics of importance. Proper weapons use and safety were emphasized throughout the day of training.
The training also included hands-on instruction, practice and assessment at the outdoor shooting range. Using FPPD weapons, all of our Officers successfully requalified to continue their weapons use and police service.
The Library
The FPPL Urban Explorers took a unique trip to the famous Frick Collection on East 70th Street in Manhattan. While there and taking a look at this museum’s historic treasures, the Explorers were intrigued by three very special paintings that the Docent selected for them: Vermeer’s “Mistress and Maid,”
Reports from April Board of Trustees Meeting
From page 1
Johansen’s “Portrait of Henry Clay Frick,” and Veronese’s “The Choice Between Virtue and Vice.” They spent quality time as the Docent offered informative and inspiring stories about each painting, and encouraged our Explorers to give thought to the artist’s message to the viewer, and interpret and appreciate each masterpiece. Bellini’s “St. Francis in the Desert” was a meaningful highlight. Many agreed that it was a most memorable experience, and they can’t wait to return to the Frick.
Our FPPL Urban Explorers are busy this Spring. Their next journey will take them to the Theodore Roosevelt Birthplace National Historic Site on East 20th Street in Manhattan on April 23rd. This will be followed by the Intrepid Museum and Concorde Experience on May 28th, and the South Street Seaport in June. They certainly have a very exciting itinerary planned!
Meanwhile, back at the Library, there’s an interesting week ahead with a New York State Unclaimed Funds Presentation on Wednesday, April 15th at 1:00 PM; the Empire Safety Council Defensive Driving Class on Thursday, April 16th from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM; and free Shredding at FPPL (with a five box limit) on Friday, April 17th from 10:00 AM to noon.
Check out our Library Events Calendar. There’s something for everyone, and it’s not just books!
Chambers of Commerce & Our Businesses
The Village of Floral Park and our Floral Park Chamber of Commerce make pedestrian and traffic safety in the Tulip Avenue business district a high priority focus and goal. Both Tulip and Plainfield Avenues are Nassau County roads. Recently, our Nassau County Legislator, John Giuffre, took a walking tour of Tulip Avenue, hosted by Village leaders and key staff, and the Floral Park Chamber president. On the walking tour, Legislator Giuffre was shown our busy intersections where traffic can become gridlocked, others that need
bolder crosswalks, and our traffic lights that control traffic. Legislator Giuffre will work with the Nassau County Department of Public Works, who also visited with Legislator Scott Strauss, in 2025. County studies and design work have already begun. The Village of Floral Park has strong working relationships with our Chambers of Commerce and County government, and we will all continue to collaborate and closely monitor the progress of these County studies and upcoming project work.
Save the date, Friday evening, June 5th for the Floral Park Chamber’s Belmont Stakes Street Fair, starting at 5:00 PM on Tulip Avenue. Come to celebrate the night before the Belmont Stakes (at Saratoga Race Course, for the last time this year) with our Chamber of Commerce, local businesses, families and friends. Lots more to follow.
And, in the meantime, SHOP AND DINE LOCAL as we celebrate Spring in Floral Park and Stewart Manor!
A Floral Park Historical Society Invitation
Floral Park Historical Society President and former Mayor Ann Corbett invites us all to “The Presidents: Old Glory,” a program commemorating the Semi quincentennial, 250th Anniversary of our Nation. Featured will be speakers James (Jim) MacDonald, Veteran and Past Commander of our Floral Park American Legion, and Ann Corbett, also Past President of the Floral Park American Legion Auxiliary. Their very interesting topics include: Presidents Who Influenced the Evolution of Our American Flag, Folds of the Flag and Patriotic Flag Stars.
Come down to the Floral Park Recreation Center this Sunday, April 12th at 2:00 PM for this patriotic, Semiquincentennial experience.
Trustee Frank Chiara Department of Public Works
The Highway Department crews have been actively filling potholes throughout the Village. In the last week, they have filled a total of 150 potholes in the Bellmore, Southside, and West End sec-
tions. Additionally, storm basins were cleaned in the Southside and West End.
The Park Department crews have begun spring cleanup and have seeded our parks.
The Maintenance Department has cleaned all Village buildings, completed the painting at the Children’s Library, and removed an old water fountain and a payphone from the Recreation Center.
The Tree Department crews have trimmed 12 trees in the last few weeks. If you would like to have any trees trimmed near your property, please contact the Department of Public Works.
The Sanitation Department has collected 64 tons of household waste, 8.5 tons of paper, 4 tons of plastic, and 12 tons of bulk rubbish.
Separately, and importantly, the Public Works Department is in the process of upgrading two pocket parks in the Village. A small pocket park at one of our Village gateways, located at Vandewater Avenue and Plainfield Avenue, is being upgraded with new plantings and flowers. Additionally, as you may have seen, Lions Park at the corner of Tulip Avenue and Atlantic Avenue is also being upgraded with a new Belgian block border and new plantings. We are looking forward to seeing them when they are complete. Superintendent Ginanne and Supervisor DeCiantis will do a great job, as always, when our
pocket parks have been refurbished.
Trustee Jennifer Stewart Fire Department
For the month of March, the Floral Park Fire Department responded to 30 calls for service. The Rescue Company responded to an additional 8 calls, and the NYU Langone Ambulance responded to 86 calls. There were four mutual aid fire calls and one mutual aid ambulance call.
Your friends and neighbors who volunteer for the Floral Park Fire Department continue to train so they are prepared to help in an emergency. We are very thankful for their service.
MTA/LIRR
On the weekends of April 18th and 25th, the Long Island Rail Road will continue its signal upgrades between the Floral Park Station and Queens Village Station as part of the Queens Interlocking Project. We have been informed that if the New York Islanders make the playoffs, the construction scheduled for the week of April 25th, will be rescheduled to allow for seamless travel by train to the UBS Arena.
Please check the Metropolitan Transportation Authority website or the TrainTime app for up-to-date information.
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Junior Woman’s Club offers scholarships
The Floral Park Junior Woman’s Club will be offering awards with scholarships to students who have displayed outstanding dedication to community service throughout their high school experience. These awards are given to honor the memory of three former members of the Floral Park Junior Woman’s Club who volun-
teered in our community. Applications can be found at the Floral Park Public Library and Floral Park Memorial High School Guidance Office. Please fill out an application with a short essay about your community service experience and return by April 24, 2026. See application for additional details.
Town car show to return to Point Lookout
The unmistakable rumble of classic engines will once again echo along the South Shore as Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti invites residents and visitors to the return of the Spring Dust-Off Car Show at Town Park Point Lookout on Sunday, May 3 (rain date: Sunday, May 17). Widely recognized as Long Island’s largest car show, the annual event transforms the waterfront park into a showcase of craftsmanship, nostalgia, and automotive innovation.
Car enthusiasts and families alike can expect a packed day featuring hundreds of vehicles competing for top honors, from vintage classics and custom builds to modern muscle cars and motorcycles. The celebration also includes live entertainment, a popular touch-a-truck experience, a kids’ zone, movie cars, a beer garden, and dozens of vendors offering food, merchandise, and automotive accessories.
This year’s show will also feature appearances from some of the most recognizable names in the automotive and entertainment world, including custom car builder Dave Kindig, television personality Kev Dogg, automo-
tive entrepreneur Richard Rawlings, and professional wrestling icon Bill Goldberg.
“The Spring Dust-Off has grown into one of the most anticipated traditions on our Town calendar,” said Supervisor Ferretti. “It’s a chance for car enthusiasts to show off their pride and joy while giving families a great reason to spend the day together along our beautiful shoreline.”
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Town Park Point Lookout (1300 Lido Blvd., Point Lookout). Gates open at 7 a.m. for registered vehicles. All makes and models are welcome, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, slingshots, trikes, and specialty vehicles.
Vehicle pre-registration is $25 and $30 the day of the event. Participants can sign up in advance by visiting townofhempsteadevents.com.
“With incredible cars, special guests, and the energy of thousands of visitors gathering in one place, the Spring DustOff captures the spirit of the car community,” Ferretti added. “It’s a great way to kick off the season here in the Town of Hempstead.”
STEWART MANOR COUNTRY
“Village
Community
Hon. Kevin M. Fitzgerald
Uncorked
Rex Whicker
Wes Houston Presents…
Wes Houston
Nick Daniel ~ Singer-Songwriter-Guitarist
FPFD: Red Alert
Larry King, AEMT
“U.S. Fire Administration” ~ Denis Onieal, Deputy Administrator (Ret.) 9:30
The Antique Road Test
Walter Gosden
“Big Wheels” ~ The Evolution of Automobile Wheels, Rims & Tires
Reports from April Board of Trustees Meeting
From page 2
Cultural Arts Committee
The Cultural Arts Committee has been working hard to line up concerts for our Summer Concert Series. Get your chairs ready to come out to Memorial Park and be entertained.
Please mark your calendars for the Village-Wide Picnic and Fireworks Show at the Recreation Center on June 20th. In addition to the games, food trucks, and fireworks, there will also be a food collection for the Our Lady of Victory Food Pantry. As service to others is an important foundation of our nation, this is a small, simple way for residents to be in service to our neighbors.
Trustee Michael Longobardi Building Department
Here are some updates on the various construction projects in our Village: Work on the West End Drainage Project is ongoing and is currently tracking slightly ahead of schedule. It is about 60% complete. There are regularly scheduled update meetings with all parties involved. Check out our Village website for any updates that may occur.
Any additional meetings for the Stella’s Mixed-Use Development Project will be announced once scheduled. Please continue to visit the Village website for updates.
Construction work for the proposed restaurant at 99 Covert Avenue will continue for the next several months and is expected to be completed at the end of Summer 2026.
The Covert Avenue fire property construction is well underway and is estimated to be completed in Summer 2026.
The Storage Post at 50 Carnation Avenue, has submitted a zoning application to expand its storage buildings. This case was approved with conditions by the Board of Zoning Appeals, the Board of Trustees, and the Architectural Review Board. The buildings will be reviewed by the Building Department next for permitting. Construction start dates will be announced once they are known.
Construction of two new homes at the 32 Orchid subdivision and one at 116 Miller Avenue is expected to begin in the next few weeks.
The renovation of 212 Jericho Turnpike, formerly Firestone, is ongoing. The owner will operate an auto repair shop in the rear portion of the first floor and have retail/business space in the rest of the building.
The Kings Arms Building at 60 Plainfield Avenue is still undergoing fire restoration. A date for pre-occupancy is not currently available.
There are two new businesses proposed for 170 Tulip Avenue: Metro Physical Therapy, which has filed permits and is in process, and a proposed Club Pilates studio in the other space. There has been no business application received to date for the latter.
A reminder that all driveways and ductless split air conditioning units require permits prior to installation. There have been numerous violations issued for properties where owners have widened their driveways or installed mechanical units that do not meet Village code and subsequently will have to be removed or altered to comply. Please call the Building Department if you have any questions regarding sizes and placement.
Pool and Recreation
First, thank you to our recreation staff, who have worked tirelessly in a very short period to prepare the park for the spring opening. The relentless cold winter and the weeks-long delay caused by snow not melting left the staff weeks behind in preparing the fields. Once it cleared, they stepped up as they always do, and I am happy to announce that our fields opened today. It is time to play ball. Thank you for all your hard
work in achieving this.
We have also been working on the tennis courts, and they are tentatively set to open this coming Monday, April 13th. Repairs continue at the basketball courts, with a tentative opening of April 16th. All are subject to change based on weather and repair progress.
Please join us on Saturday morning, April 18th, for our annual Little League parade through town and opening ceremony at the park. Come out and cheer on our young baseball stars.
The mini pool book will be going out in the next few weeks. Please keep an eye out for the new and exciting programs and events that are planned for the summer.
Town-Village Aircraft Safety & Noise Abatement Committee (TVASNAC)
The next meeting is on Monday, April 27th, 2026, at Town Hall, One Washington Street in Hempstead. If you wish to make a noise complaint regarding air traffic, you can call 1-800-225-1071. You may also visit the Village website, where links to TVASNAC noise complaint resources can be found on the homepage under the TVASNAC contact information section.
Do you have a service to advertise?
Our Service Directory is sure to bring results. Call 294-8900 for rates and information.
Celebrate Earth Day, Arbor Day at Centennial Gardens
BY ANN GRIBBINS, FPCS VOLUNTEER
So many trees to enjoy. Some with many roots, huge trunks, beautiful flowers in spring and shading leaves the rest of the year. Some , much younger, growing before our eyes.
2026 celebrates Earth Day April 22nd and Arbor Day April 24th. Both days bring an awareness of life, planet earth, our surroundings and our responsibility to the planet.
Earth Day was founded in 1970 by Gaylord Nelson to promote environmental awareness. At the time he was inspired by the Santa Barbara oil spill. The oil spill was caused by a blowout of an oil drilling rig with 4.2 million gallons of crude oil spilling into the ocean. This destructive event lead to objectives to help people be mindful of their responsibilities. Some examples of community action events are car free zones, garden clean-up, awareness of food waste, and using recycled paper, wood and other products. This event also grew into a massive movement and, eventually, helped to create the EPA, Environmental Protection Agency. The day became a grass roots endeavor with 20 million people participating including thousands of schools and communities.
The EPA, Environmental Protection Agency, has many aspects, with caring for health and the environment based on the
best scientific information as its primary objective.
Arbor Day was started in 1872 by J.Sterling Morton, driven by the need for trees on the Nebraska Plans. As a result of his efforts one million trees were planted. The trees helped the environment to provide shade, fuel, and become windbreakers.
This day helps people to be mindful of the need to promote tree planting, environmental conservation, and the benefit of trees. The day is celebrated at different times throughout the year in the United States.
Although Earth Day and Arbor Day are designated specific days for positive activities to happen people can and do make make those “make a difference” days throughout the year. At Centennial Gardens there is a monthly “weed out” that helps to keep the gardens looking beautiful.
The volunteers who belong to the Floral Park Conservation Society give t heir energy everyday to the gardens. Students come from Chaminade, Sewanhaka and Floral Park Memorial High Schools, and Scout Troops from Floral Park and surrounding villages give their services to the Gardens.
Many years ago through the efforts of two village residents, Chris Deeks and Steve Corbett, a storm basin became Centennial Gardens and Bird Sanctuary. Throughout the United States and around the world people are planting trees and
gardens to renew what is being taken away through “progress”. Localities, such as schools, churches and commercial businesses are growing trees and plants to help the environment.
“ Nothing is particularly hard if you divide it into small jobs.” said Henry Ford, founder of Ford motor company.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that has.” Margaret Mead, author who studied human behavior.
“The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The second best time is now.” A Chinese proverb. A proverb is a saying that provides wisdom based on common sense.––––
Although specific days are designated as Earth Day and Arbor Day interest in the environment is a daily need that all can contribute positively to. Spring is here, the time for planting is now. It does not have to be a major undertaking. It can be a fun experience to plant and enjoy the benefits of a simple project.
Trees on Carnation Ave, inside and outside the Gardens.
Two cherry trees inside the Gardens.
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Mindful Travelers Seek Out Responsible, Sustainable Travel Providers
BY KAREN RUBIN TRAVEL FEATURES SYNDICATE GOINGPLACESFARANDNEAR.COM
Travel “opens our minds, connects us, and makes the world a smaller place,” notes Sustainable Travel International. “Done well, tourism is a force for good that lifts communities out of poverty, improves living standards in developing countries and safeguards the world’s natural and cultural treasures.”
On the other hand, “Tourism also accounts for 8% of global emissions, litters the planet with plastic, threatens species, and overburdens communities.”
A growing cadre of travelers are mindful of the own responsibility and seek out travel companies, hotels, transportation, and destinations that offer responsible, sustainable practices – companies that make sustainability their mission, infusing their operation and their mindset.
Tour operators who practice sustainable, responsible travel in their operations and their policies are careful to limit their carbon footprint, avoid plastics and pollutants, hire locals and buy local, and often give back a portion of the tour price to the community, or assist and support community projects like schools, water, and health clinics. Wildlife, nature and safari companies show great care in how they interface with animals and the landscape, limiting interactions, and often sponsor conservation projects. And some are designed to engage the travelers actively in the projects or research.
Responsible travelers can make more informed choices of tour companies, hotels, cruiseships, transport modes and service providers. They gain first-hand understanding of the pressures on communities and eco-
Galapagos is the poster child for the necessity for responsible, sustainable eco-tourism and a model for how to practice it © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com
systems, and become ambassadors to advocate for environmental protection at home. An added benefit is that they also bring these ideas and ways of living to their own home and community.
Here is a list of widely respected sustainable, responsible travel companies:
IntrepidTravel.com specializes in environmentally, culturally and socially responsible tours for small groups in destinations worldwide.
G Adventures, a Canada-based travel company, features trekking, safaris, ecotourism, cultural tours around the world, and is known for small group tours that prioritize local economic benefits and community-based projects.
Natural Habitat Adventures partners with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to offer specialized, eco-conscious wildlife tours, including polar bear and Galápagos trips.
And Beyond specializes in luxury, conservation-focused tourism in Africa, Asia, and South America.
Much Better Adventures focuses on adventure travel that supports local communities and contributes to habitat conservation, with 5% of revenue going to conservation funds.
Exodus Adventure Travels offers trips that often include “citizen
science” opportunities, such as collecting water samples for research.
Global Exchange offers socially responsible Reality Tours to 30 developing countries worldwide.
Journeys International is a US-based family-owned global adventure travel company specializing in guided cross-cultural explorations, nature safaris, treks and eco-tours in remote corners of the globe.
Tribes Travel is a UK-based travel company offering holidays and safaris run on fair trade and responsible travel principles.
World Expeditions, based in the UK (with offices in USA), offers trekking and small group adventure holidays, based on responsible and sustainable travel principles
Much Better Adventures focuses on adventure travel that supports local communities and contributes to habitat conservation, with 5% of revenue going to conservation funds.
Slow Travel
Bike tours are not only friendly to the environment, but are stimulating to mind and body and bring you to places you would otherwise never see and interactions you would never otherwise have. (BikeTours.com; Discovery Bicycle Tours; Wilderness Voyageurs;
BoatBikeTours; Backroads; Trek Travel; Exodus Adventure Travels; Duvine; and Butterfield & Robinson)
Rail travel: Consider a vacation by rail – Europe is easy to get around (RailEurope, Eurail and Vacations by Rail); Canada (VIA Rail), Great Rail Journeys (greatrail.com). Of course Japan is famous for its bullet train and excellent train system. Amtrak Vacations offers packages along its famous routes: California Zephyr; Coast Starlight; Empire Builder (amtrakvacations.com). Also, there are scenic rail routes such as Grand Canyon Railway, (Xanterra.com) Iconic rail journeys include Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (Europe); Rocky Mountaineer (Canada): Glacier Express (Switzerland); Rovos Rail (Africa); Maharajas› Express (India); Belmond Royal Scotsman (Scotland); TransSiberian Railway (Russia/Asia); Andean Explorer (Peru); Bernina Express (Switzerland/Italy); Eastern & Oriental Express (Southeast Asia); Seven Stars in Kyushu (Japan).
Voluntourism
Earthwatch enables people to join research projects alongside scientists such as Amazon Riverboat Exploration, Climate Change at the Arctic’s Edge, Conserving Wild Bees and Other Pollinators of Costa Rica and Discovering Ancient Societies in Portugal (earthwatch.org/expeditions/browse).
Biosphere Expeditions is an award-winning, non-profit organization enabling ordinary people to join scientists in the field doing hands-on research in marine, mountain, and tropical ecosystems. Two-thirds of the fee goes to the conservation project (www.biosphere-expeditions.org).
We Can See for Miles and Miles and Miles ...
BY DENNIS MAMMANA
Week of April 19-25, 2026
During my long career working in planetariums, I had a great advantage. Not only could I move the sun, moon and planets around the sky, I could also make the stars appear in the daytime and even make clouds disappear at will. In other words, I had control of the entire universe. Now that was a great gig!
I could do this in a planetarium because everything we saw was projected onto a thin aluminum dome overhead and operated by an electronic control panel. Some in the ancient world believed that the real sky was similar to a planetarium dome, with a series of crystalline spheres that carried everything in the heavens around us. This is certainly understandable; stand under a daytime or nighttime sky and it’s tough to believe otherwise.
Fortunately, modern science has given us many sophisticated techniques to measure distances to celestial objects, and we now know that this crystalline dome idea is merely an illusion caused by our eyes’ inability to perceive depth at great distances.
This week, we’ll have an opportunity to aim binoculars toward the sky and see three celestial targets, each at a much greater distance than the other. The best evening to view them is Thursday, April 23.
The first of these is the planet Venus.
Now appearing as a brilliant “star” in the western sky at dusk, Venus is currently the closest planet to us. It shines so brightly because it’s a world the size of Earth and is covered with sunlight-reflecting clouds. On the 23rd, it will be the nearest natural object in our sky, at a distance of “only” 136.8 million miles from us.
It’s still pretty distant, so if you aim binoculars toward this planet, you won’t see much except a brighter dot of light. But if you do so as the sky begins to darken, you may see two other objects.
To the lower left of Venus will appear the planet Uranus. This world is the first to be discovered by telescope (in 1781 by musical composer and amateur astronomer William Herschel). Unfortunately, it’s really faint because it’s so distant -- some 1.9 billion miles away.
The third object is a star cluster known as the Pleiades, or Seven Sisters. Normally, it shines nicely very high in the winter sky, but now that spring is upon us, it’s descending farther to the west each evening. This grouping of relatively young stars lies at a distance of 2,600 trillion miles.
Since the sky won’t be completely dark at dusk, and these three will lie quite low against the horizon, it’ll be tough to see all of them in the same binocular field of view. It’s certainly worth trying, though.
On the 23rd, the light reflected from the cloudtops of Venus will have taken
only 12.3 minutes to reach us (we say it’s 12.3 light-minutes away), and that from Uranus will have traveled some 2.8 hours.
The starlight from the Pleiades, on the other hand, has spent some 444 years traveling in our direction; in other words, it began its journey around 1582 and is just arriving tonight! So much for crystalline spheres! Visit Dennis Mammana at dennismammana.com. . COPYRIGHT 2026 CREATORS.COM
LOST IN SUBURBIA
A Conversation With the Plumber’s Assistant
BY TRACY BECKERMAN
Me: “Hi. This is Tracy Beckerman. I need to schedule a follow-up appointment with the plumber.”
Plumber’s Assistant: “Hey, my sister’s name is Tracy. That’s so funny! Do you spell it with an ‘e’ or no ‘e’?”
Me: “Um, no ‘e’.”
PA: “My sister doesn’t spell it with an ‘e,’ either. I mean, who needs an extra letter for no reason. LOL!”
Me: “Exactly! So anyway, about that appointment ...”
PA: “Oh sure. How about tomorrow?”
Me: “I’m actually out of town the next two days.”
PA: “Oh, I won’t tell anyone that. LOL! Don’t want your house to get robbed.”
Me: “Um, thank you?”
PA: “Yeah, I knew this guy who wrote all over Facebook that he was going to Jamaica, and then when he got back from his trip, his house was
cleaned out. Like, duh!”
Me: “Yeah, duh.”
PA: “I mean my boyfriend is a police officer, so I know you should never tell people on the internet when you’re going out of town.”
Me: “Absolutely. How about Thursday?”
PA: “What about Thursday?”
Me: “For my plumbing appointment.”
PA: “Oh right. You know, people share too much information on the internet anyway, don’t you think?”
Me: “Sometimes they share too much information on the phone too.”
PA: “I know, right? Haha. Like, I have this friend who got filler in her lips and showed the pictures all over Instagram. It was kinda gross. Who wants to see pictures of someone’s big ol’ fish lips?”
Me: “Or hear about it on the phone ...”
PA: “But I mean, I’ve posted some gross pictures of plumbing emergencies
we’ve had, so what’s worse, right?”
Me: “Maybe talking about it?”
PA: “Do you know what happens when your kid tries to flush a Barbie head down the toilet? It’s not pretty. Not to mention how Barbie looks when you fish her out.”
Me: “Probably a lot like me right now.”
PA: “Bad enough Barbie was decapitated, then she got flushed. What a way to go, LOL.”
Me: “I know the feeling.”
PA: “Poor Barbie. LOL!”
Me: “May she rest in peace. So, back to my appointment ...”
PA: “Oh yeah. When did you say?”
Me: “Thursday.”
PA: “Sorry, after tomorrow we don’t have anything for two weeks. But we might have a last-minute cancellation. Can you call back in a few days?”
Me: “Not on your life.”
Tracy Beckerman is the author of the Amazon Bestseller, “Barking at the Moon: A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble,”
available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble online! You can visit her at www. tracybeckerman.com.
COPYRIGHT 2026 CREATORS.COM
April 23 will be a great evening to view Venus, along with Uranus and the star cluster Pleiades.
REAL ESTATE WATCH
Why Property Taxes Feel So Unpredictable Now
BY PHILIP A. RAICES
For decades, property taxes were one of the more predictable aspects of homeownership. You might not have liked the number, but you could generally count on gradual, incremental changes year over year. Today, that sense of predictability is gone. For many homeowners, property taxes now feel erratic—spiking unexpectedly, shifting unevenly, and becoming harder to plan around.
So what changed?
The answer lies in a convergence of three powerful forces: reassessments catching up to rapid home price growth, steadily rising local government budgets, and the lasting effects of inflation. Together, they have transformed property taxes from a relatively stable expense into one that behaves more like a moving target.
The Reassessment Effect: Sudden Adjustments, Not Gradual Change
At the center of today’s volatility is the reassessment process. Municipalities periodically update property values to reflect current market conditions. In theory, this ensures fairness—homeowners pay taxes based on what their property is actually worth.
But in practice, reassessments rarely happen in real time. In many communities, they occur sporadically or in large intervals. That creates a lag effect. When home values rise quickly—as they did during the post-pandemic housing surge—assessments often fail to keep pace. Then, when reassessments finally occur, they can result in sharp increases rather than gradual adjustments.
For homeowners, this feels like a sudden financial jolt. A home that quietly appreciated over several years may suddenly be taxed at a much higher value all at once, even if the owner hasn’t made any changes to the property.
Local Budgets: The Hidden Driver Behind Tax Bills
While reassessments get most of the attention, they are only part of the equation. Property taxes ultimately fund local government budgets— schools, public safety, infrastructure, and municipal services.
In recent years, those budgets have been under increasing pressure. Rising labor costs, expanded services, and long-term obligations such as pensions have steadily pushed spending higher. Add to that the growing need for infrastructure upgrades, storm resilience projects, and modernized public facilities, and the financial demands on local governments become even more significant.
When budgets increase, the funding has to come from somewhere. In most suburban communities, that “somewhere” is property taxes.
What makes this especially frustrating for homeowners is that budget increases are often incremental and occur through a process that doesn’t receive widespread attention. Many residents only become aware of the impact when their tax bill arrives.
Inflation: The Multiplier That Doesn’t Go Away
Inflation has played a critical—and often underestimated—role in the current property tax environment. During the recent inflation surge, the cost of goods and services rose sharply across the board. Local governments were not immune.
Construction materials, fuel, labor, insurance, and maintenance costs all increased. Even as inflation rates have moderated, those higher costs have largely remained in place. Municipalities must now operate within this more expensive environment, and their budgets reflect that reality.
Unlike a temporary price spike, these cost increases tend to be sticky. Once a municipality adjusts its spending upward to account for higher expenses, it rarely reverses course. As a result, property taxes often continue to climb even after inflation headlines fade.
The Disconnect Between Market Trends and Tax Bills
One of the most confusing aspects for homeowners is the disconnect between what they hear about the housing market and what they see on their tax bill.
A homeowner might read that home prices are stabilizing—or even declining slightly—yet still face a higher property tax bill. This happens because assessments are often based on prior data, and the formulas used to determine taxable value can lag behind current market conditions.
Additionally, equalization rates and assessment methodologies vary widely from one municipality to another. The result is a system that can feel opaque and inconsistent, even when it is technically functioning as designed. This disconnect fuels a common and understandable frustration: if a home’s market value is no longer rising, why do property taxes continue to increase?
Tax Caps and Misconceptions
Many homeowners assume that
tax caps provide a safeguard against significant increases. While caps can limit how much a municipality raises its total tax levy, they do not necessarily protect individual homeowners from higher bills.
That’s because tax caps apply to the overall amount collected, not how that burden is distributed. If property values shift unevenly within a community, some homeowners may see larger increases while others see smaller ones—or even decreases.
In other words, even when a municipality stays within its legal limits, individual tax bills can still change substantially.
A System of Redistribution
Property taxes are inherently relative. They are not just about what your home is worth, but how it compares to others in your area.
If your property’s value rises faster than your neighbors’, you may end up shouldering a larger share of the overall tax burden. Conversely, if your home’s value lags behind, your share may decrease.
In stable markets, these shifts are usually minor. But in today’s environment—where some neighborhoods or property types are appreciating faster than others—the redistribution effect has become more pronounced.
This creates a sense of unpredictability and, at times, inequity, as homeowners struggle to understand why their tax burden has changed so significantly.
Why the Volatility May Continue
Looking ahead, there are several reasons to believe that property tax volatility is not a temporary phenomenon.
Local governments are facing longterm financial challenges, including aging infrastructure, climate-related investments, and ongoing operational costs. At the same time, housing markets remain dynamic, with values continuing to shift based on interest rates, migration patterns, and economic conditions.
These factors suggest that reassessments, budget adjustments, and cost pressures will remain ongoing features of the system—not one-time events. What Homeowners Can Do
While homeowners cannot control tax policy, they are not entirely without options.
First, it is essential to review your
property’s assessment regularly. Errors or outdated information can and do occur, and correcting them can lead to meaningful savings.
Second, pay attention to local budget discussions. School district and municipal budgets are public processes, and they directly influence property taxes. Being informed can help homeowners anticipate changes rather than react to them.
Third, consider filing a grievance if your assessment appears out of line with market value. While the process can seem daunting, it is one of the few direct ways to challenge your tax burden.
Finally, incorporate property taxes into long-term financial planning. In today’s environment, they should be viewed as a variable expense rather than a fixed one.
The Bottom Line
Property taxes feel more unpredictable today because they are being shaped by multiple forces at once. Reassessments are catching up to years of rapid home price growth. Local budgets are expanding to meet rising costs and demands. Inflation has permanently raised the baseline for municipal spending.
Individually, each of these factors would be manageable. Together, they create a system that feels volatile and, at times, difficult to understand.
For homeowners, the key is not just to recognize these forces, but to adapt to them. In a landscape where property taxes are no longer steady or predictable, awareness and proactive management are more important than ever.
Philip A. Raices is the owner/Broker of Turn Key Real Estate at 3 Grace Ave Suite 180 in Great Neck. He has 43+ years experience in the Real Estate industry and has earned 3 significant designations:
National Association of Realtors Graduate Realtors Institute (what I consider a Master’s degree in real estate). Certified International Property Specialist - expert in consulting and completing international transactions.
Continued on page 5
BY TOM MARGENAU
When My Word Isn’t Good Enough
Readers are always asking me to explain various Social Security rules and regulations. But sometimes they want more. They want to see something official -- something in “black and white.” In other words, they want me to give them a legal reference for whatever rules I am explaining to them.
I sort of know where they are coming from. Often, they have heard one thing from a friend or a supposed trusted source, such as a financial advisor or even a Social Security representative. And then they read something different in my column or one of my books. I understand their confusion.
So why should they trust me? Well, I’ve been doing this Social Security stuff for more than 50 years now. And most of the program’s rules and regulations are just burned into my brain. I will occasionally need to check something out in the Social Security Administration’s “Program Operations Manual System,” which is the primary resource guide for all SSA employees. POMS takes all of the Social Security laws and turns them into practical instructions for carrying out those laws. Frankly, I haven’t looked at the actual laws for many years now.
Still, I understand that more than a few people would like to see something in writing. Because of the high volume of emails I get, I simply don’t have the time to look everything up for every person who demands to see it in “black and white.” But if you want to do your own research, I have some bits of advice.
First, I strongly recommend starting with the “Social Security Handbook.” The Handbook is a much shorter version of the POMS. If you printed out the entire POMS, it would fill about 20 big three-ring binders. (I know this for a fact because when I worked for the SSA before an electronic version of POMS came along, I had those 20 binders in a bookshelf behind my desk.)
Anyway, the Social Security Handbook is only about 700 pages and fills just one book on my desk. You can find a PDF version at www.socialsecurity.gov. Or simply do a Google search for “Social Security Handbook.” But if you’re an old-fashioned guy like me, you can get a hard copy of the book at any bookseller like Amazon. (It is expensive, though. About a hundred bucks the last time I checked!)
And since I mentioned Amazon, allow me to shamelessly plug my book. It’s an Amazon best seller and is called “Social Security - Simple and Smart.” It’s a collection of fact sheets I have written for my readers over the years. These fact sheets explain almost every facet of the Social Security program. It’s much shorter and simpler than the Social Security Handbook. And it is WAY easier
to understand than the POMS. And it is so much more convenient to find what you are looking for in my book rather than trying to wade through all the Social Security rules. If you search for it on Amazon and the 2026 version doesn’t pop up, look for a box that says, “See all formats and editions,” and then click on the 2026 edition.
Having plugged my book, I totally understand that it’s not good enough for some people. They want to see the actual rules and regulations. If you are not satisfied with the Social Security Handbook, you are going to have to delve into the thousands and thousands of pages of POMS.
You can find POMS online at www. socialsecurity.gov. Scroll down to the bottom of the homepage and click on “Research and policy.” On the page that pops up, scroll down until you see a link labeled “Program Rules,” and click on it. Once there, you will see four links. You will want to open the link labeled “Employee Operating Instructions.” Then click on “Program Operations Manual System - POMS.” When you open it up, you will see the Table of Contents, which is divided into topics like “Retirement and Survivors Insurance” and “Disability Insurance” and “Health Insurance” and so on.
And then all I can say is “good luck!” I’ve been using POMS for more than half a century now and to be honest, I still have trouble finding exactly what I am looking for.
And for those of you who aren’t satisfied with my book, with the Social Security Handbook, or with POMS and you insist on seeing the actual law, well then I wish you even more luck. In my 50 years of working on Social Security issues, I think I’ve tried to find an actual law reference only once or twice. But if you really want to, you can find the laws by following the same links I mentioned above for POMS. Once you click on “Program Rules,” you will find tabs for “The Law,” “The Regulations,” and “The Rulings.”
I am not a lawyer and I certainly am no expert on these matters, but I think in a nutshell, the “Law” is the law. The “Regulations” are subsets of the law. The “Rulings” are subsets of the regulations. And POMS turns all that legal mumbo jumbo into something at least sort of readable. But to repeat, my book turns all of that into something very readable and easy-to-understand.
Having given you all these instructions for wading through the SSA website to find various laws and rules and regulations, I’ve found that a simple Google search can work just as well. And here is a big hint for doing that. Always start out your search with the words “Social Security.” For example, say you wanted information on the 10-year duration of marriage rule that applies
to a divorced husband or wife trying to get benefits on an ex-spouse’s Social Security record. When you do the Google search, don’t just type in “10-year marriage rule.” Make sure you type in “Social Security 10-year marriage rule.” Lots of helpful links will pop up. But if you want a specific POMS reference, then add POMS to your search. So you would type in “Social Security 10-year marriage rule POMS.”
Or, as I said, keep things really easy and just spend fifteen bucks and get my book, “Social Security - Simple and Smart.”
If you have a Social Security question, Tom Margenau has two books with all the answers. One is called “Social Security -- Simple and Smart: 10 Easy-to-Understand Fact Sheets That Will Answer All Your Questions About Social Security.” The other is “Social Security: 100 Myths and 100 Facts.” You can find the books at Amazon.com or other book outlets. Or you can send him an email at thomas.margenau@comcast.net.
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CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Book clubs: mixing mysteries & beach reads
BY CLAIRE LYNCH
When I joined a book club two years ago I was a newcomer but over time I’ve gotten to know who’s who. My group has a couple of quiet people, those individuals who relax, sit back and take everything in as people comment on the book being discussed that month. At some point they speak up and say which character was their favorite.
Everyone pays close attention when they speak because they have thought about the book from several angles and made their conclusions as to whether or not it works. They make their points about the plot, the characters, the crescendo and naturally, whether or not it has a great ending. Is there a major cliffhanger or is there a smooth and rather obvious ending?
Sometimes I like the predictability of a book’s ending but other times I like being surprised by having it end on a cliffhanger meaning we don’t really know the answer and we start thinking about a sequel. Suspense has a way of getting the adrenaline going and I like wondering what will come next.
My high school English teacher, Mrs. Smith, told us about “Moby Dick,” which was required reading for so many of us. What was it about Capt. Ahab, that leader of a crew who was headstrong and made some bad choices? In the end, his crew paid the price for it.
Mrs. Smith also explained about “denouement” which sounded like a big, complicated word to this high school sophomore but she said that after the climax of the story, it explains any lingering questions the reader may have. Denouement was a foreign word to me in high school and sure enough it’s a French word that means “untie the knot.”
In a book, the denouement is the
resolution of a plot that occurs after the climax. Denouement is not a literary technique, it’s the point in a story in which the conflict is resolved.
One of the books we read recently was “Ordinary Grace” by William Kent Krueger. It was published in 2013 but I hadn’t heard of that author or that particular book. Told from Frank Drum’s perspective 40 years after the fact, it’s set in 1961 in New Bremen, MN, when the Twins were playing their debut season and ice-cold root beers were selling out at the soda counter at Holderson’s Drugstore. There’s a murder mystery in town and 13-year-old Frank and his younger brother, Jake, age 11, feel compelled to tell what they have seen.
A real page turner, it held my attention and we had a lively discussion at the public library. In his own life Krueger spoke with a librarian who understood how interesting a good adventure story might be to, at that time, a 12-year-old boy. He said she suggested reading “The Count of Monte Cristo.”
Krueger explained, “With that first captivating Dumas novel, she launched me on a journey of reading that has led to where I am today.” He then read everything by Alexandre Dumas plus other adventure authors like Jules
Verne and H.G. Wells.
William Kent Krueger grew up in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon and always dreamed of becoming a writer. Krueger worked at various jobs before becoming a full-time author - he logged lumber, worked in construction and tried freelance journalism but his wife, Diane, now a lawyer, backed his dream.
Another book we read called “The Harbor House,” was much lighter than “Ordinary Grace.” It was breezy to read and more of a “beach read” in fact.
Written by Mia Kent and published in 2022, “The Harbor House” centers around Robyn Wright, a middle-aged woman who wants a change in her life.
She takes a part-time job assisting an elderly woman who lives in a beautiful harbor house on a small island called Thistle Island off the coast of North Carolina. Her goal is to find a few months of peace and quiet and the chance to recharge her batteries.
While taking a walk on the beach Robyn uncovers a message in a bottle and a mystery that needs solving and she, with her innate curiosity and sense of adventure, is just the person to solve it.
As Robyn begins investigating the matter she discovers that the locals on
Thistle Island have made it a habit to collect the numerous other bottles with messages that have also washed up on the shoreline. They are all displayed in town and Robyn finds that fascinating. It’s summertime and life has taken an unexpected turn for Robyn Wright. No, this book isn’t Nicholas Sparks’ “Message In a Bottle” - this one is different. “The Harbor House” is a perfect beach read meaning it’s not heavy, it’s entertaining and holds my interest, too.
Now that I’ve been a regular member I’ve gotten to know the “old reliables,” the individuals who always arrive early and stay a few minutes late to help set up or just to chat with others. These people are around to talk about future books or to talk about whatever is on anyone’s mind. Having good discussions with peers is fun and I look forward to them because once the book club meeting starts there really aren’t many side conversations - too distracting for everyone else.
Since retiring seven years ago and joining a book club in my neighborhood I’ve read numerous books and discovered many new authors. People I’d never thought about reading before. I thought only bookworms attended book club meetings but the people in my group are pretty outgoing. Not everyone is an extrovert but many of them are so that makes for some pretty lively discussions about the book of the month and future books, too. Our list covers a wide range of topics as well as different genres.
Many people judge a book by its cover. Or its blurb. Everyone makes book suggestions and after all is said and done, some I liked reading and others were just okay. But when I am happily surprised by a book, that’s a good thing. And when it’s a really memorable book, that’s simply awesome.
Continued from page 3
National Association of Realtors Green designation: eco-friendly low carbon footprint construction with 3-D printed foundations, Solar panels, Geothermal HVAC/Heat Pumps).
He will also provide a copy of “Unlocking the Secrets of Real Estate’s New Market Reality, and his Seller’s and Buyer’s Guides for “Things to Consider when Selling, investing or Purchasing your Home.
He will provide you with “free” regular updates of what has gone under contract (pending), been sold (closed) and
those homes that have been withdrawn/ released or expired (W/R) and all new listings of homes, HOA, Townhomes, Condos, and Coops in your town or go to: https://WWW.Li-RealEstate.Com and you can “do it yourself (DYI) and search at your leisure on your own. However, for a “FREE” no obligation/no strings attached 15-minute consultation, as well as a “FREE printout or digital value analysis of what your home might sell for in today’s market without any obligation or “strings” attached call him at (516) 647-4289 or email: Phil@ TurnKeyRealEstate.com
ONE CALL TO 516-294-8900 AND YOUR AD WILL APPEAR IN 6 LOCAL NEWSPAPERS. CALL TODAY FOR OUR VERY LOW RATES. www.gcnews.com
Garden City News • Mid Island Times Bethpage Newsgram • Syosset Advance Jericho News Journal • Floral Park Villager
DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS IS TUESDAY AT 1:00PM.
2 EASY WAYS TO PLACE ADS:
1) Directly on website: gcnews.com & click on “Classified Order”
2) Email Nancy@gcnews.com
Please include your name, daytime phone number, address and ad copy.
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EMPLOYMENT
SITUATION WANTED
CAREGIVER HHA
My name is Zhanna. I am available and willing to take on a variety of work, including cooking and providing assistance to those in need.
I hold a Home Health Aide (HHA) certificate and have hands-on experience in caregiving.
I am energetic, hardworking, detail-oriented, honest, and polite.
I am fluent in Ukrainian, English, Polish & Russian. If you or someone you know could benefit from my services, please feel free to contact me by phone: 516-547-6554 (Katherine) Or by email: slaszyn@aol.com
COMPANION/CAREGIVER AVAILABLE
Honest, Reliable, Friendly, experienced Polish Woman is available for Companionship with elderly.
Flexible days and hours. Light Housekeeping, Laundry, Errands.
Fluent in English. Own Car. Call or Text 516-589-5640
ANNOUNCEMENTS
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172
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MARKETPLACE
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MARKETPLACE
Antique & Vintage Items
Jewelry-Crystal-Silver Furniture-Mirrors-Tabletop Artwork-Lamps Consign, Shop or Visit the Yellow House 109 Eleventh Street Garden City 516-746-8900 Mon-Fri 10-4 (Wed to 6pm) Saturday 12-4 (entrance & parking in back) Consignments by appointment atstewartexchange@tgchs.org All proceeds benefit The Garden City Historical Society
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ITEMS FOR SALE
GARDEN CITY
Artificial Christmas Tree 7.5’ pre-lit/ remote control used 1 season only
Perfect condition
Dresser and night table
Dark Brown wood
Secretary desk antique, few scratches, needs some tlc
China Cabinet
Dark Brown wood glass front cabinets inside light
Antique Hutch (Black) with beautiful marble top lined drawers
Lladro Nativity Set
misc Lladros
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MARKETPLACE
WANTED TO BUY
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REAL
ESTATE FOR RENT
OUT OF TOWN REAL ESTATE
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2 Bayfront Homes
Available for rent
July & August Rental
3 Bedroom $2,200/week
2 Bedroom $2,000/week For more info call/text: 631-338-8871
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You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679
BARNES GALLERY
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JACK’S CUSTOM FRAMING We can frame anything! Quality Care & Workmanship Thousands of frames to choose from!! Over 30 years in business! 92 Covert Ave, Stewart Manor 516-775-9495
ATTORNEY
STEPHANIE A. D’ANGELO, ESQ. Elder Law, Wills & Trusts Asset Preservation, Estate Planning, Probate & Estate Administration/Litigation 901 Stewart Ave, Ste 230 Garden City, NY 11530 516-222-1122 www.dangelolawassociates. com
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Pecan Brownies
When it comes to baked goods, it’s hard to deny the appeal of a homemade brownie. Whether eaten on their own or paired with ice cream, brownies are a welcome treat that few can resist.
Though chocolate dominates the flavor profile of brownies, these beloved treats can be enhanced with additional delicious ingredients, like pecans. Anyone who wants to throw a little extra flavor into their next batch of brownies can consider this recipe for “Pecan Brownies” from Lines+Angles Makes 12 brownies
12 ounces plain dark chocolate, 70 percent cocoa solids
2 sticks of butter
3 large eggs
1 1/4 cup dark brown sugar 1/4 cup flour
1) Heat the oven to 325° F. Grease an 7” x 11” rectangular baking dish and line the base with non-stick baking paper.
2) Put the chocolate and butter in a pan and heat gently, stirring until melted. Allow to cool slightly.
3) Whisk the eggs in a mixing bowl until pale and frothy, then add the sugar, a spoonful at a time, whisking until thick and glossy.
4) Gently fold in the melted
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
5 ounces chopped pecan nuts
To decorate: Icing sugar
chocolate mixture. Sift in the flour, baking powder and salt and fold in the pecan nuts.
5) Spoon the mixture into the baking dish, level with the back of a spoon and bake for 40 minutes, until the top has a cracked appearance and the center is still a little soft to the touch. Do not overbake, or you will loose the famous sticky brownie texture. Cool in the pan.
6) Cut into slices and sift over a little icing sugar.
CUSTOM FRAMING
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Litmor Publications publishes the ads of service providers in our Classifieds, Professional Guide and Service Directory. A 6-week agreement brings your specialty or service to the attention of the community. Let us begin listing you in our next Issue. For More Info and Rates, Call Nancy 516.294.8900 Advertising in the Professional Guide is only open to N.Y.S. Licensed Professionals.
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